Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Program

The Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) Rheumatology Fellowship is an ACGME-accredited two-year program designed to provide comprehensive training for those pursuing a career in rheumatology. Graduates of the fellowship will be equipped to practice independently as rheumatology consultative specialists and will be eligible to apply for board certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) in rheumatology.

The fellowship program is notable for its relatively recent establishment, having first been accredited by the ACGME in 2024. Despite being new, the rheumatology section at Virginia Mason Medical Center is among the largest and most well-regarded in Washington state. The center delivers extensive care to patients hailing from various states, including Washington, Alaska, Idaho, and Wyoming, handling hundreds of outpatient clinic visits each month, alongside a robust musculoskeletal ultrasound program.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured to ensure that fellows gain substantial experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Training encompasses a focus on outpatient clinical rheumatology, supported by a longitudinal continuity clinic experience. During their fellowship, trainees will rotate through various consultative services, allowing them to hone their skills in different contexts. Additionally, fellows will engage in elective rotations and dedicate time to research and academic projects, fostering a balance between clinical practice and scholarly pursuits.

Research Opportunities

VMFH hosts an active clinical and translational research program, working alongside the Benaroya Research Institute to participate in a variety of clinical trials. This involvement provides fellows with valuable exposure to innovative rheumatology practices and research methodologies, greatly enhancing their training experience.

Application Requirements

Applicants interested in joining the program must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include:

• Completion of an internal medicine residency in an ACGME-accredited program.
• Demonstration of self-motivation and a keen interest in continuous improvement.
• A strong inclination towards academic pursuits, teaching, or quality control initiatives.
• Possession of mature interpersonal and communication skills essential for patient interactions and teamwork.
• U.S. citizenship or possession of Permanent Residency status.

Competitiveness

The competitiveness of the VMFH Rheumatology Fellowship is reflective of its comprehensive training structure, coupled with the program's affiliation with a major research institute and a large medical center. These attributes typically attract a diverse pool of highly qualified applicants, making the selection process competitive.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers visa support for applicants. Specifically, it can sponsor J-1 visas for international medical graduates who meet the required qualifications. This facilitates the acceptance of international candidates who wish to pursue their rheumatology fellowship at VMFH.